Alternator

[noah4009]

I have a 1971 55HP Chrysler. Model 557HC Serial 3188. Where is the alternator located? How can I test it?

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Alternator

I do not know serial and model numbers. IF you have two ignition coils mounted on the engine block, then the alternator is mounted under the flywheel. If there are two coils mounted under the flywheel, then the engine is magneto ignition and no alternator is included.

If you do have an alternator, test the resistance of the two A/C leads that attach to the rectifier while they are not attached to it. There should be low resistance. Infinite resistance indicates broken wires or windings and 0 resistance indicates a short.

 

[noah4009]

Re: Alternator

Frank
When I last started the engine, yesterday I let if run 10 minutes. Then I started it maybe 7,8 times only letting it run a couple of minutes each time during the afternoon. I really did not let it charge, except when it ran for 10 minutes. I know thats not much. but the battery needed to be recharged that evening. It is a brand new marine battery. 875 cranking amps at 32 degrees and it is in the 70's here. I am trying to see if this engine is charging the battery? It does have the coils on the side and was told on this forum it has an alternator. It is electric ignition, not magneto. How do I check to see if this alternator is charging the battery? You mentioned testing the rectifier. How do I do this? Will this tell me if it is charging?